Device and method for removing earwax

ABSTRACT

The present invention describes an earwax removal device having varying structures to provide different earwax removal capabilities. In all designs, the overall contour of the earwax-extracting member resembles the dimensions of the external auditory canal and is flexible enough to conform to it during insertion. Each engages and collects wax using the pressure of insertion and rotation effects. Embodiments include a club-like member having multiple protrusions and extractions to collect wax along its sides, and an opening in the tip that leads to a channel to collect wax; a flexible spiral member to compress when the device is inserted in an ear and thereby extract wax as it expands when the device is removed; a screw-like structure to laterally move wax and grind as it rotates; a multi-channel structure to cut and collect wax simultaneously; and a shovel-like structure to effectively shear and scrape wax from an ear canal.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a device and method for removing earwax.

2. Description of Related Art

Devices for the extraction of earwax are generally known in the art. Forexample, U.S. Pat. No. 3,923,061 discloses a body with a padding mountedat one end of a shaft, wherein the padding has multiple grooves formedspirally in the body around the axis of the shaft. This design isdisadvantageous because the body has narrow grooves that collect a smallfraction of the superficial wax in an ear canal. Further, these generalswab-type devices pack dense wax down into the ear canal generating abolus of deep, chronic wax against the eardrum.

Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 1,450,612 describes an earwax removal devicecomprising an ear manipulator mounted at one end of a shaft, wherein theouter surface of the manipulator is covered with a series of radiallydisposed soft fins, which serve to brush the passage in the ear wheninserted therein, and twisted or rotated. The ear manipulator has apointed end to aid the removal of the waxy deposit in the externalauditory canal. Again the solid head tends to bludgeon wax medially.Furthermore, the blind manipulation of small tool tips can often resultin damage to the delicate canal skin-tympanic membrane surfaceinterface.

Techniques of wax removal known in the art fail to penetrate into hard,dry impacted wax for effective extraction. The known devices for removalby experts under direct visualization, e.g. metal curettes and picks,tend to stir and particulate the material, disengaging it piecemeal fromthe mass and often cause canal skin injury. Present rotating devices mayengage soft wax on walls but do poorly with more solid accumulations,are readily misdirected hazardously, and can be dangerous near theeardrum. Known irrigation techniques are often performed blindly, can becumbersome in many settings, and do not detach wax from skin. Residualwet wax can be a nidus for infection. Poorly performed irrigationresults in vertigo by stimulating the posterior semicircular canal.Likewise, wax softeners may aid in extraction but do not extract.

More efficient and effective devices and methods for removing earwax areneeded. For example, wax removal devices with structural variations thatprovide multiple methods of extracting different forms of wax areneeded. Thus, an objective of the present invention is to provide a waxremoval device that has varying tip and body structures that allowremoval of wax in different manners simultaneously. Another object ofthe invention is to provide wax removal devices with varying bodystructures incorporating at least one channel within the body toeffectively collect wax, steer the wax laterally out of the canal, andactively prevent impaction of wax often caused by the use of presentdevices. Yet another object of the invention is to provide devices withvarious compressible and extension structures to effectively engage anddislodge wax and minimize the risk of damage by overly forcefulinsertions. Also, more anatomically correct wax removal devices areneeded to better conform to an ear canal to ensure that the surfacecontacts are flush with the skin and eardrum to avoid the damage thatmay occur when small tools are inserted blindly in uncontrolleddirections. Canal-fitted tools can more effectively remove the wax inbulk. Improved tools can bore, grind and mince wax in the course ofcollection. With these goals in mind, the inventor has created animproved wax removal device and method having the aforementioned desiredqualities.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention describes an earwax removal device comprising ashaft having a longitudinal axis and an earwax-extracting member. Theearwax-extracting member can include a body portion and a tip portion,the body portion having a first end and a second end, the first end andthe second end of the body portion located opposite each other, the tipportion located at the first end of the body portion, the shaftconnected to the second end of the body portion. The shaft andearwax-extracting member can be several connected components or oneintegrated component. The body portion can include a guard member toprotect the ear from insertion of the device.

The body portion can have varying widths. In some embodiments, anopening is formed in the tip portion and a hole is formed in at leastone of the recesses of the body portion such that a tunnel is formedinside the earwax-extracting member.

In one embodiment, the body portion has multiple protrusions andrecesses formed on the body portion. The tip portion can also comprisemultiple protrusions.

In another embodiment, the body portion comprises multiple bristlesprotruding substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of theshaft and the tip portion comprises a cone-shaped spiral. In anotherembodiment, the tip portion comprises multiple elongated protrusionsextending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.

Another earwax removal device described herein comprises a shaft havinga longitudinal axis and an earwax-extracting member comprising aflexible body, the flexible body connected to an end of the shaft, theflexible body capable of contracting and extending in a directionsubstantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. Theflexible body can comprise a plurality of rings, the rings connected andstacked in a zigzag manner. In one embodiment, the flexible bodycomprises a spiral member, the spiral member having a first end and asecond end, the first end and the second end of the spiral memberlocated opposite each other, the earwax-extracting member furthercomprising a tip portion, the tip portion comprising a cross-shapedelement and a bar, the bar connected to the cross-shaped element andextending from the first end of the spiral member in a directionsubstantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the shaftconnected to the second end of the spiral member.

In another embodiment, the flexible body can comprise a first spiralsection, an intermediate section, and a second spiral section, thesecond spiral section connected to the shaft, the intermediate sectionconnected to the first spiral section and to the second spiral sectionand located between the first spiral section and the second spiralsection, the intermediate section having a width perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis of the shaft, the first spiral section having a widthperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the second spiralsection having a width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of theshaft, the width of the intermediate section being larger than the widthof the first spiral section and larger than the width of the secondspiral section. This embodiment can also have a tip portion comprising avertical bar, a first pair of horizontal bars and a second pair ofhorizontal bars, the vertical bar extending from the first spiralsection in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axisof the shaft, the first pair of horizontal bars extending from a firstlocation of the vertical bar such that the first pair of horizontal barscross each other, the second pair of horizontal bars extending from asecond location of the vertical bar such that the second pair ofhorizontal bars cross each other, the first location of the vertical barmore distant from the first spiral section than the second location ofthe vertical bar, the first pair of horizontal bars and the second pairof horizontal bars substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axisof the shaft.

In yet another embodiment, the earwax-extracting member can comprise acentral rod having a first end and a second end, the second endconnected to an end of the shaft, the central rod extending in adirection substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaftand a helical ridge member extending about the central rod. The helicalridge member can further have at least one notch therethrough.

In another embodiment, the body portion of the device can comprise a setof two interconnected and overlapping helical structures. The bodyportion can further have a second set of two interconnected andoverlapping helical structures connected to the first set of twointerconnected and overlapping helical structures, both sets havingvarying widths.

In yet another embodiment, the body portion can comprise a curvedelongated member extending substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis and forming an interior space and an elongated cross-bar memberextending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis within theinterior space, wherein a first quadrant, a second quadrant, a thirdquadrant, and a fourth quadrant are formed between the curved elongatedmember and the elongated cross-bar. The quadrants can be open or closedalong the length of the body. The body can further comprise a pluralityof holes into a channel formed by a quadrant, each hole furthercomprising a projecting member capable of guiding earwax into the holeand into the channel.

In another embodiment, the curved elongated member can comprise a firstflag member and a second flag member, said first flag member and saidsecond flag member attached to a pair of opposing ends of said elongatedcross-bar member.

Another embodiment of the device has a body portion having a first andsecond elongated member, each extending substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis, and each having a sloped interior surface and curvedexterior surface.

A method for earwax removal is also described, generally comprising thesteps of providing an embodiment of an earwax removal device describedherein, inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removaldevice into the ear canal, and pulling out the earwax-extracting memberof the earwax removal device from the ear canal. Prior to pulling outthe device, a step of rotating the earwax removal device while theearwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is located in theear canal can be included.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device having a bodycomprising multiple protrusions and recesses according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device having a bodycomprising multiple protrusions and recesses, and a tunnel therethrough,according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device having a bodyof varying widths and comprising multiple protrusions and recessesaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device having a bodycomprising multiple protrusions and recesses according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device having bristlesaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device having bristlesand a cone tip according to the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device havingbristles, a cone tip, and a tunnel through the body according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 8A illustrates an orthogonal view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having bristles and a tip having protrusions according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having bristles and a tip having protrusions according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having bristles, a tip having protrusions, and a tunnel throughthe body according to the present invention;

FIG. 10A illustrates an orthogonal view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having a ring structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 10B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having a ring structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device having aspiral member and a cross-shaped tip according to the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device having aspiral member and intermediate section comprising protrusions andrecesses according to the present invention;

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having a helical ridge member according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 13B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having a helical ridge member according to the present invention;

FIG. 14A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having a helical ridge and varying widths according tothe present invention;

FIG. 14B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having a helical ridge and varying widths according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 15A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having a helical ridge, and a tunnel therethrough,according to the present invention;

FIG. 15B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having a helical ridge, and a tunnel therethrough, according tothe present invention;

FIG. 16A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having overlapping and interconnecting helical structuresaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 16B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having overlapping and interconnecting helical structuresaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having two sets of overlapping and interconnectinghelical structures according to the present invention;

FIG. 17B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having two sets of overlapping and interconnecting helicalstructures according to the present invention;

FIG. 18A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having channels and cutting structures according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 18B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having channels and cutting structures according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 18C illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a wax removal devicehaving channels and cutting structures according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 19A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having channels, cutting structures, and a tunneltherethrough, according to the present invention;

FIG. 19B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having channels, cutting structures, and a tunnel therethrough,according to the present invention;

FIG. 19C illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a wax removal devicehaving channels, cutting structures, and a tunnel therethrough,according to the present invention;

FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having channels, cutting structures, and a tunneltherethrough, according to the present invention;

FIG. 21A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having flag members according to the present invention;

FIG. 21B illustrates a perspective side view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having flag members according to the present invention;

FIG. 21C illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having flag members according to the present invention;

FIG. 21D illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a wax removal devicehaving flag members according to the present invention;

FIG. 22A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having a shovel-type elongated member according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 22B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having a shovel-type elongated member according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 23A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a waxremoval device having a shovel-type elongated member according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 23B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having a shovel-type elongated member according to the presentinvention; and

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a wax removaldevice having flag members according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended to provide example embodiments of the presentinvention and is not intended to represent the only forms in which theinvention may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth thefunctions and the sequences of steps for constructing and operating theinvention. However, it is to be understood that the same or equivalentfunctions and sequences may be accomplished by different embodimentsthat are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope ofthe invention.

Some embodiments of the invention will be described in detail withreference to FIGS. 1-24. Additional embodiments, features, and/oradvantages of the invention will become apparent from the description ormay be learned by practicing the invention. The drawings in the figuresare not necessarily drawn to scale and have like numerals referring tolike features through both the drawings and the description.

FIGS. 1 through 24 illustrate embodiments of earwax removal devices andmethods for removing earwax. An earwax removal device 10 generallycomprises a shaft 20 having a longitudinal axis and an earwax-extractingmember 30. The earwax-extracting member 30 and shaft 20 can be separateand removably connected, or can be made as one integrated structure. Thetwo-piece configuration can include elements that screw together via athread-fit, friction fit, snap-fit or any other suitable type ofattachment. This configuration also allows one to choose whichembodiment of the earwax-extracting member 30 to use based on thedesired earwax removal capabilities such that the earwax-extractingmembers 30 are interchangeable.

The components of the device 10 may be made of plastic, rubber, metal,or another suitable material as required for desired control andflexion. Additionally, the device 10 can be comprised of a single, solidmaterial or can have a core material with an outer shell, e.g. a wirecovered by a molded plastic that has the appropriate structure. Thedevice 10 and its components are intended to be either disposable orreusable. The device 10 can also be made of a material suitable forvarious methods of sterilization, including irradiation.

The shaft 20 may be of varying lengths and widths. The shaft 20 can bemanually rotated by the user or can incorporate a motor-driven shaft 20that provides rotation. A typical length range can be two to threeinches, but longer or shorter lengths may be utilized depending on thedesired amount of control. The width of the shaft 20 can be similar tothat of the ear canal, about six to seven millimeters, particularly whenthe shaft 20 and earwax-extracting member 30 form a single structure.The shaft 20 can also include gripping surface 24, such as a flangedesign, etching, spiral ridging or a coarse surface, to improvehandling. The shaft 20 can also include a handle 26 in any suitable formfor improved gripping.

The design of the shaft 20 of the device 10 generally remains the samewhile the earwax-extracting member 30 can have significantly differentstructures. However, each embodiment of the present invention may haveseveral common properties. Unless otherwise specified, each embodimentcan include a conical surface configuration or conical configuration ofmembers at the tip portion 50 of the device 10 to meet flush with thetympanic membrane. Each device 10 can have a soft widening of the bodyportion 40 or increase in the height of the active surface members,which create a gradual widening of the wax removal tip as the externalauditory canal widens. Further, each device 10 can include an opening 54in the tip portion 50 that leads to a channel through which wax isactively driven or channeled by the pressure of device 10 insertion androtation. The body portion 40 of the earwax-extracting member 30 caninclude an exit hole 49 to exhaust wax under pressure in the device bodycloser to the tip. The device 10 can be comprised of a flexible materialsuch that the body of the earwax-extracting member 30 can compress andexpand to dislodge engaged wax. Use of a softer material, such as softplastic or rubber, can allow for a tight fit of the earwax-extractingmember 30 against the ear canal skin, thereby enhancing functionality.Ear wax removing tips with soft core or compressible design willself-guide through the external auditory canal tortuosities and compressto minimize the risk of damage during blind insertion. In addition, theearwax-extracting members 30 that anatomically fit the external auditorycanal can remove the wax bolus as a single collection.

The typical human ear canal is about five to six millimeters across inthe bony portion near the tympanic membrane and about eight to tenmillimeters wide ear the lateral, cartilaginous region. The canallength, about two to three centimeters long, defines the maximum depthof penetration of the earwax-extracting member 30. Various widths permitthe device 10 to adapt to individual variations in the human ear canal.Anatomically correct wax removal devices better conform to an ear canalto ensure that the surface contacts are flush with the skin and eardrumto avoid damage that may occur when small tools are inserted blindly inuncontrolled directions. Also, the canal-fitted tools can moreeffectively remove the wax in bulk. Other configurations can bedetermined for appropriate animals.

The device 10 can have internal safety guards to control the depth atwhich the device 10 is inserted in the ear canal. For example, eachdevice 10 can include a guard member 70, such as a ring or coil, oranother suitable sharp local flaring at about five to seven millimetersfrom the tip portion 50 or end of the earwax-extracting member 30. Theguard member 70 is intended to limit the extent of tip penetration atthe narrowing of the canal known as the “bony-cartilaginous junction.”

Additional rings or flares along the earwax-extracting member's body canbe included to control the width of the body and limit penetration inthe ear from the conchal bowl region into the external auditory canalitself. They can be used to adjust the exposure of the functionalelements, such as bristles 45, to the canal skin surface. Suchembodiments can comprise three extension members distributed about thebody portion 40 and tip portion 50 of the device 10. A first extensionmember is located along the perimeter of the tip portion 50, a secondextension member is located at the junction of the upper section 41 andlower section 43 of the body portion 40, and a third extension member islocated at an end of the wax extracting member 30 closest to the shaft20 of the device 10. The extension members may be in the shape of solidrings or coils and can be used to control the depth to which theearwax-extracting member 30 can be inserted in the ear canal. Sectiondividing rings or coils can enhance device 10 rotation through canalcurvatures.

As discussed above, the earwax-extracting member 30 may have variationsin dimensions and configurations. For example, a straight, widecylindrical design can contact the ear canal walls more evenly and drawin softer wax as it rotates. A conical design that tapers toward the tipmay bore into a harder wax plug, intending to engage the plug andextract it entirely. A narrow cylindrical design may bore smaller holesinto a large solid wax accumulation, which may facilitate removal with asecond extraction technique. All surfaces of the earwax-extractingmembers 30 can be textured or etched to increase hold of the wax ontothe device 10. A wide base, with or without a narrower tip segment, is asafety control that can limit penetration of the wax removing tip.

The earwax-extracting member 30 may vary in sharpness and hardness. Softwax would be safely and effectively removed with soft outer edgeswhereas harder wax may warrant sharper, blade-like edges that cut intothe wax. The earwax-extracting member 30 may terminate with or without atip such that it can have a flat end or have a gentle, conical rise thatcan engage wax near the tip. The conical design may come to a point orhave a blunt end. A flat, umbrella-style cover may be added to the endof the earwax-extracting member 30 to minimize the risk of damage to theeardrum. The umbrella-style cover may have an added coating or surfacematerial, such as foam or cotton to further prevent potential damage tothe eardrum. The ear-extracting member in all embodiments can be made ofa soft, malleable plastic, rubber, or other suitable material to conformto the anatomical shape of the ear canal.

All embodiments of the earwax-extracting member 30 can flex and can becompressible in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20of the device 10. The range of compressibility is approximately onemillimeter to four millimeters. Embodiments using firmer plasticsgenerally compress when coil or spring segments are utilized.Embodiments using softer materials can vary in the amount ofcompressibility, depending on the structure of the earwax-extractingmember 30. The various compressible and extension structures of theearwax-extracting member 30 effectively engage and dislodge wax whileminimizing the risk of damage that can be caused by overly forcefulinsertions.

The earwax-extracting member 30 can have a hollow core to admit andcollect wax, as well as an opening 54 at the tip portion 50, to coreinto impacted wax. The openings in the earwax-extracting member 30 canlead to at least one channel within the body to effectively collect wax,steer the wax laterally out of the canal, and actively prevent impactionof wax. In other embodiments, the body portion 40 may be comprised of aharder material to scrape out harder wax in the ear canal. In addition,the hollow interior may be filled with a wire mesh that aids in gratingwax, or a cutting blade(s) to cut canal hair.

Several non-limiting specific embodiments of the device 10 havingvarious earwax-extracting members 30 are described below. The scope ofthe invention shall not be limited to the following examples or theirheadings.

Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a “Club” Design

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the “club” embodiment of the device 10 comprisesan earwax-extracting member 30 having an irregular surface with a bumpand trough pattern. Some troughs may open into an optional waxchannel(s) through the earwax-extracting member 30. An optional centralchannel network may steer compressed wax laterally through the device10. The embodiment can be made in a soft material that could allow“sponging” of wax into its center.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the earwax removal device 10 comprises a shaft20 having a longitudinal axis and an earwax-extracting member 30. As anon-limiting example, the earwax-extracting member 30 can have a lengthin a range of between about ten to twelve millimeters. Theearwax-extracting member 30 has a body portion 40 having a first end 42and a second end 44, the first end 42 and the second end 44 of the bodyportion 40 located opposite each other. The earwax-extracting member 30also has a tip portion 50 located at the first end 42 of the bodyportion 40. The shaft 20 is connected to the second end 44 of the bodyportion 40.

Multiple protrusions 46 and multiple recesses 48 are formed on thesurface of the body portion 40 and multiple protrusions 52 are formed onthe tip portion 50. FIG. 2 illustrates that the protrusions 46 of thebody portion 40 and the recesses 48 of the body portion 40 can bearranged alternately and can be curved or substantially round in shape.Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the multiple protrusions 46 of the bodyportion 40 can vary in size, a first group of protrusions 46A beingsmaller in size than a second group of protrusions 46B. The differentlysized protrusions 46 can create an irregular or irregularly, irregularsurface. The protrusions 46 can also be coupled with troughs or deep-setentrances into a tunnel 60 that is formed inside the earwax-extractingmember 30.

The widths of the body portion 40 at two different distances from thesecond end 44 of the body portion 40 are different from each other. Thevarying widths allow the device 10 to better fit within the ear canal.For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the body portion 40 can be dividedamong an upper section 41 and a lower section 43. In such embodiments,the width of the lower section 43 can be larger than the width of theupper section 41 to better fit the ear canal. The device 10 can includecoil or ring connections between segments to allow rotation and flexionbetween medial and lateral components.

To prevent damage to the eardrum, the tip portion 50 can be slanted in aconical manner such that an angle between a tangent plane to a centralsurface of one of the protrusions 52 of the tip portion 50 and ahorizontal plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20is approximately 15° or less. To further prevent damage to the eardrum,a guard member 70, such as a ring or other suitable extending structure,can surround the body portion 40 at the second end 44 of the bodyportion 40.

Alternatively, a safety mechanism can be used at three junctions of theear-extracting member. For example a safety mechanism can include threeextension members, a first extension member 32 surrounding the perimeterof the tip portion 50, a second extension member 34 surrounding theperimeter of the body portion 40 and located between the upper section41 and the lower section 43, and a third extension member 36 surroundingthe perimeter of the body portion 40 and located proximate to the secondend 44 of the body portion 40. The first through third extension membercan increase in size to anatomically correspond with the ear.

In some embodiments, shown in FIG. 2, the earwax-extracting member 30can include a channel therethrough. In such embodiments, an opening 54is formed in the tip portion 50 where wax can enter the device 10 into atunnel 60 that is formed inside the earwax-extracting member 30. Earwaxcan also enter into the tunnel 60 through troughs or deep-set entrancescoupled with protrusions 46 on the body. The wax can subsequently exitthrough an exhaust port or hole 49 in at least one of the recesses 48 ofthe body portion 40.

Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a “Bristle” Design

FIGS. 5 through 9 illustrate several different embodiments of the device10 having bristles 45. Varying the bristle width and length as shown inFIG. 5 will allow for controlled wax removal while the direction of thebristles 45 will allow for collection of wax in a particular direction.The earwax-extracting member 30 of this embodiment has a body portion 40comprising multiple bristles 45 protruding substantially perpendicularto the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20. The bristles 45 can be in aconfiguration that is adapted to fit an eardrum-canal skin envelope. Asshown in FIGS. 5-7, the bristles 45 can be substantially cylindrical inshape and vary in size. The bristles 45 allow for effective dislodgingand removal of wax upon rotation of the device 10.

In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the tip portion 50 of theearwax-extracting member 30 can include a cone-shaped spiral 56 to boreinto wax. In another alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 7, an opening 54is formed in the tip portion 50, a hole 49 is formed in the body portion40, and a tunnel 60 is formed inside the earwax-extracting member 30such that the opening 54 of the tip portion 50 and the hole 49 of thebody portion 40 are connected to the tunnel 60. Wax can thereby enterthe device 10 through the opening 54 and exit the device 10 through thehole 49 in the wax-extracting member 30.

In yet another alternate embodiment shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the tipportion 50 can comprise multiple elongated protrusions 58 extendingsubstantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20 tofurther dislodge and remove wax. Also shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, thebristles 45 of the body portion 40 can have different sizes and shapes,including a rectangular 45A, V 45B, and plus-sign (+) 45C shape. Asshown in FIG. 9, this embodiment can also have an opening 54 in the tipportion 50 connected to a tunnel 60 through the body portion 40 andexhaust hole 49 in the body portion 40 for wax removal.

Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a “Coil” Design

The device 10 having a flexible coil-like earwax-extracting member 30 isshown in FIGS. 10 through 12. As shown in FIGS. 10-12, theearwax-extracting member 30 can comprise a flexible body 80 connected toan end of the shaft 20 and capable of contracting and extending in adirection substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft20. When this embodiment of the device 10 is used, the inward pressureon the spring member allows the device 10 to core into wax, after whichthe spring nature can tighten the spring member around the wax asextraction occurs. By virtue of its spring action, repeat tugs on thisdevice 10 can dislodge a bolus from canal skin. A spring member ormultiple spring members at the base or junctions of the ear-extractingmember 30 of the device 10 can reduce the risk of damage from overlyforceful insertion.

The flexible body 80 can be comprised of a plurality of rings 90, therings 90 connected and stacked in a zigzag manner as shown in FIGS. 10Aand 10B. The rings 90 can have varying widths that are perpendicular tothe longitudinal axis of the shaft 20. In another embodiment shown inFIG. 11, the flexible body 80 comprises a spiral member 100 having afirst end 102 and a second end 104. The first end 102 and the second end104 of the spiral member 100 are located opposite each other. Theearwax-extracting member 30 further comprises a tip portion 50 having across-shaped element 51 and a bar 53. The bar 53 of the tip portion 50is connected to the cross-shaped element 51 and extending from the firstend 102 of the spiral member 100 and the shaft 20 is connected to thesecond end 104 of the spiral member 100. In this embodiment, the tipportion 50 can penetrate wax a few millimeters to anchor to the bolus,and even the spiral member 100 can catch more superficial portion of acerumen bolus. The spring action of the spiral member 100 allowsintermittent tugs to dislodge the bolus.

In yet another embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the flexible body 80comprises a first spiral section 120, an intermediate section 130, and asecond spiral section 140. The second spiral section 140 is connected tothe shaft 20, the intermediate section 130 is located between the firstspiral section 120 and the second spiral section 140. The intermediatesection 130 is similar to the “club” embodiment of the device 10 in thatit can include protrusions 46 and recesses 48 to better facilitate waxremoval. In addition, the earwax-extracting member 30 can include a tipportion 50 having a vertical bar 53. A first pair 55 and a second pair57 of horizontal intersecting bars can be attached to the vertical bar53 to also better remove wax.

Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a “Screw” Design

Several screw-type embodiments of the device 10 are illustrated in FIGS.13-17B. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B, theearwax-extracting member 30 of this embodiment can comprise a centralrod 150 and a helical ridge member 170 extending about the central rod150. The earwax-extracting member 30 of this embodiment drives waxlaterally as device 10 turns. This embodiment provides a mechanism forremoving wax in which the wax is not simply bound to surface or withincavity but channeled by the force of insertion and turning into alateral portion of the body, thereby promoting lateral excursion of wax.The screw configuration self-steers and seals along the canal wallsduring insertion.

As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the helical ridge member 170 can havevarying widths to accommodate and better fit the anatomical structure ofthe ear canal. As shown in FIGS. 13A-15B, the earwax-extracting member30 can also include one or more notches 172 that grind the engaged waxwithin channel of the helical ridge member 170. Like the otherembodiments, an opening 156 can be formed at the first end 152 of thecentral rod 150, leading to a tunnel 160 formed therein to collect wax,as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B. An exit hole 158 at a second end 154 ofthe central rod 150 can be used to empty the wax from the tunnel 160.

In another embodiment of the earwax-extracting member 30, illustrated inFIGS. 16A and 16B, the body portion 40 can be comprised of a set of twointerconnected and overlapping helical structures 310, 320.Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the body portion 40 canhave a second set of interconnected and overlapping helical structures410, 420, each set having a different width to better fit the ear canaland extract wax out of the ear when the device 10 is rotated.

Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a “Multi-Channel” Design

The device 10 having a multi-channel design is shown in FIGS. 18-20.This design resembles a “potato masher” in that the tip portion 50 wherethe channels meet the wax can break up the wax and admit the wax intothe channels. This design also has resembles a “potato peeler” in thatthe side slits in the channels can cut wax and admit wax into thechannels along the sides of the earwax-extracting member 30. Lastly,this embodiment resembles a “cheese grater” in that the projectingmembers can engage wax in the direction of the projecting members as thedevice 10 moves in, out, or rotates. Each projecting member can be aturret to provide optional rotation of the projecting member.

As shown in FIGS. 18A-20, the earwax-extracting member 30 has a bodyportion 40 comprising a curved elongated member 180 extendingsubstantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The curved elongatedmember 180 forms an interior space 182 within it. An elongated cross-barmember 190 extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis isconnected to the curved elongated member 180 within its interior space182. A first 200, second 202, third 204, and fourth 206 channel areformed as a result of the connection between the curved elongated member180 and elongated cross-bar 190. The tip of the earwax-extracting device10 can thereby cut and collect wax into the four channels formedtherein.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 18A-20, a slit 184 can be formed in a curvedelongated member 180. The slit 184 can extend from the first end 42 tothe second end 44 of the body portion 40 and can include a pointed lip186 along a longitudinal edge of the slit 184 to cut wax along the sideof the ear-extracting member 30. In addition, shown in FIGS. 18A-18B and19A-19B, a plurality of holes 188 can be formed along the curvedelongated member 180 and into at least one channel 200, 202, 204, 206 tothereby intake wax into the channel. Also, the elongated member 180 caninclude at least one projecting member 189 capable of guiding earwaxinto a hole 189 and into a channel 200, 202, 204, 206. In anotherembodiment shown in FIGS. 19A-C and 20, the shaft 20 can include anaperture 22 therethrough to collect and exhaust wax.

In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 21A-21D, the curved elongatedmember 180 can be comprised of a first flag member 181 and a second flagmember 183. The first and second flag members 181, 183 are attached atone pair of opposing ends of the elongated cross-bar member 190. Eachflag member 181, 183 may further comprise an extending wedge portion 185having a pointed longitudinal edge 187. The longitudinal edge 187 canthereby scrape earwax from inside the ear when the device 10 is rotated.The flag members 181, 183 can also each have at least one aperture 192therethrough. The apertures 192 in the flag members 181, 183 can furthercollect wax as the device 10 is rotated during use.

Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a “Shovel” Design

FIGS. 22A-24 illustrate embodiments of the present invention having ashovel-like earwax-extracting member 30. This embodiment of the device10 can also cut wax at the tip portion 50 while scrape wax along thesides of the earwax-extracting member 30. As shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B,the earwax-extracting member 30 can comprise a body portion 40 having afirst 210 and second elongated member 220, each of the elongated membersare connected to an end of the shaft 20 of the device 10. To facilitatecollection of wax, the elongated members 210, 220 can have a slopedinterior surface 230 to cut wax and curved exterior surface 240 toscrape wax along its edges.

Another embodiment of the shovel-like device 10 shown in FIGS. 23A and23B includes a curved horizontal member 250 connecting the firstelongated member 210 and second elongated member 220. The curvedhorizontal member 250 adds flexibility to the lateral elongated members210, 220 which can then bend and sweep up wax when the device 10 isrotated in the ear. A third elongated member 260 connected to the curvedhorizontal member 250 between the first 210 and second 220 elongatedmembers can also further increase dislodging of wax from the ear. Allthree elongated members 210, 220, 260 can vary in size and shape.

In yet another embodiment shown in FIG. 24, the first and secondelongated members 210, 220 can be connected to opposing side ends 302,304 of an elongated vertical bar member 300 that is extending in adirection substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.The elongated vertical bar member 300 can be formed in any shape and isnot limited to that shown in FIG. 24.

As will be understood upon using the embodiments of the device 10, oneearwax-extracting member 30 can provide multi-functional properties. Thetip portion 50 and body portion 40 can provide dual-action structuresand mechanisms to remove different forms of wax from the ear at thefront end of the device 10 and on the sides of the device 10. Inaddition, various embodiments utilizing spring structures, ridgestructures, openings, tunnels and holes in the device 10 can increasethe function of capturing and removing wax in different manners.

A method for removing earwax from an ear canal is also described, themethod comprising the steps of providing any of the above embodiments ofthe earwax removal device 10, inserting the earwax-extracting member 30of the earwax removal device 10 into the ear canal, rotating the earwaxremoval device 10 while the earwax-extracting member 30 of the earwaxremoval device 10 is located in the ear canal, and pulling out theearwax-extracting member 30 of the earwax removal device 10 from the earcanal. Certain embodiments of the device 10, such as those describedwith a “coil” design above, do not require the rotating step toeffectively capture and remove wax from the ear.

While the present invention has been described with regards toparticular embodiments, it is recognized that additional variations ofthe present invention may be devised without departing from theinventive concept. A person skilled in the art would appreciate thatexemplary embodiments described hereinabove are merely illustrative ofthe general principles of the present invention. Other components,configurations, modifications or variations may be employed that arewithin the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings anddescription are illustrative and not meant to be a limitation thereof.

All terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible mannerconsistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and“comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components,or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referencedelements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combinedwith other elements, components, or steps that are not expresslyreferenced. Thus, it is intended that the invention cover allembodiments and variations thereof as long as such embodiments andvariations come within the scope of the appended claims and theirequivalents.

1. An earwax removal device comprising: a shaft having a longitudinalaxis; and an earwax-extracting member comprising a body portion and atip portion, the body portion having a first end and a second end, thefirst end and the second end of the body portion located opposite eachother, the tip portion located at the first end of the body portion, theshaft connected to the second end of the body portion.
 2. The earwaxremoval device of claim 1, the body portion comprising multipleprotrusions and multiple recesses formed on the body portion, the tipportion comprising multiple protrusions formed on the tip portion, thebody portion having widths perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of theshaft, wherein widths of the body portion at two different distancesfrom the second end of the body portion are different from each other.3. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the protrusions of thebody portion and the recesses of the body portion are arrangedalternately.
 4. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein an openingis formed in the tip portion, a hole is formed in at least one of therecesses of the body portion, and a tunnel is formed inside theearwax-extracting member such that the opening of the tip portion andthe hole of the body portion are connected to the tunnel.
 5. The earwaxremoval device of claim 2, wherein the recesses of the body portion andthe protrusions of the tip portion are substantially round or oval inshape.
 6. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the tip portionis slanted in a conical manner such that an angle between a tangentplane to a central surface of one of the protrusions of the tip portionand a horizontal plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of theshaft is approximately 15°.
 7. The earwax removal device of claim 2further comprising a guard member surrounding the body portion at thesecond end of the body portion.
 8. The earwax removal device of claim 2,wherein the earwax-extracting member has a length in a range of betweenabout 5 mm and about 7 mm.
 9. The earwax removal device of claim 2,wherein the multiple protrusions of the body portion comprise a firstgroup of protrusions and a second group of protrusions, the first groupof protrusions being smaller in size than the second group ofprotrusions.
 10. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the bodyportion comprises an upper section and a lower section, the uppersection located between the lower section and the tip portion, a widthof the lower section being larger than a width of the upper section. 11.The earwax removal device of claim 10, further comprising threeextension members, a first extension member surrounding the perimeter ofthe tip portion, a second extension member surrounding the perimeter ofthe body portion and located between the upper section and the lowersection, and a third extension member surrounding the perimeter of thebody portion and located proximate to the second end of the bodyportion.
 12. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the methodcomprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim 2;inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device intothe ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while theearwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is located in theear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting member of the earwaxremoval device from the ear canal.
 13. The earwax removal device ofclaim 1, the body portion comprising multiple bristles protrudingsubstantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. 14.The earwax removal device of claim 13, the tip portion comprising acone-shaped spiral.
 15. The earwax removal device of claim 14, whereinthe bristles are substantially cylindrical in shape.
 16. The earwaxremoval device of claim 14, wherein at least two of the bristles aredifferent in size.
 17. The earwax removal device of claim 13, wherein anopening is formed in the tip portion, a hole is formed in the bodyportion, and a tunnel is formed inside the earwax-extracting member suchthat the opening of the tip portion and the hole of the body portion areconnected to the tunnel.
 18. A method for removing earwax from an earcanal, the method comprising: providing an earwax removal deviceaccording to claim 13; inserting the earwax-extracting member of theearwax removal device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removaldevice while the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal deviceis located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extractingmember of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
 19. The earwaxremoval device of claim 13, wherein the tip portion comprises multipleelongated protrusions extending substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the shaft.
 20. The earwax removal device of claim19, wherein at least two of the bristles are different in shape.
 21. Theearwax removal device of claim 19, wherein an opening is formed in thetip portion, a hole is formed in the body portion, and a tunnel isformed inside the earwax-extracting member such that the opening of thetip portion and the hole of the body portion are connected to thetunnel.
 22. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the methodcomprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim 19;inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device intothe ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while theearwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is located in theear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting member of the earwaxremoval device from the ear canal.
 23. An earwax removal devicecomprising: a shaft having a longitudinal axis; and an earwax-extractingmember comprising a flexible body, the flexible body connected to an endof the shaft, the flexible body capable of contracting and extending ina direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of theshaft.
 24. The earwax removal device of claim 23, wherein the flexiblebody comprises a plurality of rings, the rings connected and stacked ina zigzag manner.
 25. The earwax removal device of claim 23, the ringshaving widths perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft,wherein widths of the rings at two different distances from the end ofthe shaft to which the flexible body is connected are different fromeach other.
 26. The earwax removal device of claim 23 further comprisinga guard member surrounding the device in proximity to the end of theshaft to which the flexible body is connected.
 27. A method for removingearwax from an ear canal, the method comprising: providing an earwaxremoval device according to claim 23; inserting the earwax-extractingmember of the earwax removal device into the ear canal; and pulling outthe earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device from the earcanal.
 28. The method of claim 27 further comprising: rotating theearwax removal device while the earwax-extracting member of the earwaxremoval device is located in the ear canal.
 29. The earwax removaldevice of claim 23, wherein the flexible body comprises a spiral member,the spiral member having a first end and a second end, the first end andthe second end of the spiral member located opposite each other, theearwax-extracting member further comprising a tip portion, the tipportion comprising a cross-shaped element and a bar, the bar connectedto the cross-shaped element and extending from the first end of thespiral member in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the shaft, the shaft connected to the second end of the spiralmember.
 30. The earwax removal device of claim 29 further comprising aguard member surrounding the device in proximity to the second end ofthe spiral member.
 31. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal,the method comprising: providing an earwax removal device according toclaim 29; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removaldevice into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while theearwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is located in theear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting member of the earwaxremoval device from the ear canal.
 32. The earwax removal device ofclaim 23, wherein the flexible body comprises a first spiral section, anintermediate section, and a second spiral section, the second spiralsection connected to the shaft, the intermediate section connected tothe first spiral section and to the second spiral section and locatedbetween the first spiral section and the second spiral section, theintermediate section having a width perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis of the shaft, the first spiral section having a width perpendicularto the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the second spiral section havinga width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the widthof the intermediate section being larger than the width of the firstspiral section and larger than the width of the second spiral section.33. The earwax removal device of claim 32 further comprising a tipportion, the tip portion comprising a vertical bar, a first pair ofhorizontal bars and a second pair of horizontal bars, the vertical barextending from the first spiral section in a direction substantiallyparallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the first pair ofhorizontal bars extending from a first location of the vertical bar suchthat the first pair of horizontal bars cross each other, the second pairof horizontal bars extending from a second location of the vertical barsuch that the second pair of horizontal bars cross each other, the firstlocation of the vertical bar more distant from the first spiral sectionthan the second location of the vertical bar, the first pair ofhorizontal bars and the second pair of horizontal bars substantiallyperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
 34. The earwaxremoval device of claim 32, wherein the intermediate section comprisesmultiple protrusions and multiple recesses formed on the intermediatesection.
 35. The earwax removal device of claim 34, wherein theprotrusions and the recesses of the intermediate section aresubstantially curved.
 36. A method for removing earwax from an earcanal, the method comprising: providing an earwax removal deviceaccording to claim 33; inserting the earwax-extracting member of theearwax removal device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removaldevice while the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal deviceis located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extractingmember of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
 37. An earwaxremoval device comprising: a shaft having a longitudinal axis; anearwax-extracting member comprising a central rod having a first end anda second end, the second end connected to an end of the shaft, thecentral rod extending in a direction substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the shaft; and a helical ridge member extendingabout the central rod.
 38. The earwax removal device of claim 37, thehelical ridge member having widths perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis of the shaft, wherein widths of the helical ridge member at twodifferent distances from the end of the shaft to which the flexible bodyis connected are different from each other.
 39. The earwax removaldevice of claim 37, wherein an opening is formed in the first end of thecentral rod, a hole is formed in the central rod, and a tunnel is formedinside the central rod such that the opening of the central rod and thehole of the central rod are connected to the tunnel.
 40. The earwaxremoval device of claim 37, the helical ridge member having at least onenotch therethrough.
 41. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal,the method comprising: providing an earwax removal device according toclaim 37; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removaldevice into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while theearwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is located in theear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting member of the earwaxremoval device from the ear canal.
 42. An earwax removal devicecomprising: a shaft having a longitudinal axis; and an earwax-extractingmember, the earwax-extracting member comprising a body portion having afirst end and a second end, the shaft connected to the second end of thebody portion, the body portion further comprising a set of twointerconnected and overlapping helical structures.
 43. The earwaxremoval device of claim 42, the body portion having a second set of twointerconnected and overlapping helical structures connected to the firstset of two interconnected and overlapping helical structures, a width ofthe first set of two interconnected and overlapping helical structuresbeing larger than a width of the second set of two interconnected andoverlapping helical structures.
 44. A method for removing earwax from anear canal, the method comprising: providing an earwax removal deviceaccording to claim 42; inserting the earwax-extracting member of theearwax removal device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removaldevice while the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal deviceis located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extractingmember of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
 45. An earwaxremoval device comprising: a shaft having a longitudinal axis; anearwax-extracting member comprising a body portion, the body portionhaving a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end ofthe body portion located opposite each other, the shaft extending fromthe second end of the body portion, the body portion comprising a curvedelongated member extending substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis and forming an interior space; and an elongated cross-bar memberextending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis within theinterior space, wherein a first quadrant, a second quadrant, a thirdquadrant, and a fourth quadrant are formed between the curved elongatedmember and the elongated cross-bar.
 46. The earwax removal device ofclaim 45, the curved elongated member having at least one slit extendingfrom the first end to the second end of the body portion.
 47. The earwaxremoval device of claim 46, the at least one slit having a pointed lipalong a longitudinal edge of the slit.
 48. The earwax removal device ofclaim 46 further comprising a plurality of holes along the curvedelongated member and into at least one channel, wherein each holefurther comprises a projecting member capable of guiding earwax into thehole and into the channel.
 49. A method for removing earwax from an earcanal, the method comprising: providing an earwax removal deviceaccording to claim 47; inserting the earwax-extracting member of theearwax removal device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removaldevice while the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal deviceis located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extractingmember of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
 50. The earwaxremoval device of claim 45, said curved elongated member furthercomprises a first flag member and a second flag member, said first flagmember and said second flag member attached to a pair of opposing endsof said elongated cross-bar member.
 51. The earwax removal device ofclaim 50, said first and second flag members each comprising a wedgeportion extending therefrom, said wedge portions each comprising apointed longitudinal edge.
 52. The earwax removal device of claim 51,said first and second flag members further comprising at least oneaperture therethrough.
 53. A method for removing earwax from an earcanal, the method comprising: providing an earwax removal deviceaccording to claim 51; inserting the earwax-extracting member of theearwax removal device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removaldevice while the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal deviceis located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extractingmember of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
 54. An earwaxremoval device comprising: a shaft having a longitudinal axis; anearwax-extracting member comprising a body portion having a first andsecond elongated member, each extending substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis and each having a curved exterior surface.
 55. Theearwax removal device of claim 54, further comprising an elongatedvertical bar member extending in a direction substantially parallel tothe longitudinal axis of the shaft and connecting the first elongatedmember and second elongated member.
 56. The earwax removal device ofclaim 54, each first and second elongated member having a slopedinterior surface.
 57. The earwax removal device of claim 54, furthercomprising at least one curved horizontal member substantiallyperpendicular to the longitudinal axis and connecting the firstelongated member and second elongated member.
 58. The earwax removaldevice of claim 57, further comprising a third elongated memberconnected to the curved horizontal member between the first and secondelongated members, the third elongated member is connected to an end ofthe shaft.
 59. The earwax removal device of claim 54, wherein each ofsaid elongated members is connected to an end of the shaft.
 60. A methodfor removing earwax from an ear canal, the method comprising: providingan earwax removal device according to claim 54; inserting theearwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device into the earcanal; rotating the earwax removal device while the earwax-extractingmember of the earwax removal device is located in the ear canal; andpulling out the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal devicefrom the ear canal.